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Simon was on the foredeck assisting with a headsail change from Yankee 3 when he was washed overboard

Clipper Race organisers

Mr Speirs's team mates and the medical team on board did their best to save him, getting him back on board in 36 minutes, but he never regained consciousness.

All other crew are reported safe and are being supported remotely by the Clipper Race organisers.

"Simon was on the foredeck assisting with a headsail change from Yankee 3 when he was washed overboard," organisers said in a statement.

"Although he was clipped on with his safety tether, he became separated from the yacht in the Southern Ocean in a rough sea state, in 20 knots of wind, gusting 40.

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Simon was taking part in the Clipper Round the World Race from South Africa to Australia

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All other crew are reported safe and are being supported remotely by the Clipper Race organisers

"The team's man overboard recovery training kicked into immediate effect and despite the rough conditions, Simon was recovered back on board by the skipper and crew within 36 minutes, at which point CPR was immediately administered by three medically trained crew, which included a GP.

"However, Simon sadly never regained consciousness and was pronounced deceased. The cause of death is unconfirmed at this time but thought to be by drowning."

The statement added: "At the time of the incident, Simon was clipped on, wearing his lifejacket, which included an AIS beacon, as well as approved waterproof ocean oilskins.

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Simon was sailing for Great Britain which was in sixth place and reached the Indian Ocean

"A full investigation will now be carried out, as is standard practice, into the full details of the incident, including the reasons his safety tether did not keep him on board, in cooperation with the appropriate authorities."

Organisers have confirmed that Mr Speirs was given a sea burial "following medical advice and all considerations".

It was a Christian service led by his skipper and crew, and was followed at home by his family.